Two of its features, a low-pitched roof on a two-story dwelling and a wide top section, suggest some connection to New England building traditions. Decorative sidelights, transom light around the entryway and brick surrounds on the front windows show the slow move from the vernacular styles of the colonial era to the Federal style of American independence, which put more emphasis on a decorativefacade.[2]

The land was originally the property of Isaac Bobbin, an early settler, until being subdivided into the present parcel and sold to Mathias Carvey in 1805, around the time the house was built. The house was built in the first decade of the 19th century in the then-dominant Federal style, with two storeys, three bays and a sidehall plan. However, it also features some unique touches such as a gambrel roof, with a corresponding dormer added later. It also appears taller than it actually is due to the sloping land beneath. An original front porch that ran the width of the house was removed during the 20th century.[2]

The house's interior has not been significantly altered since its construction. The original wall finishings are gone, but much of the woodwork and molding remains.[2]

Two other buildings are located on the property: a barn, also gambrel-roofed, and a garage. The former dates to the original construction of the house and is considered a contributing resource; the latter is more contemporary and does not contribute to the historic value of the house.[2]

Carvey had bought the property from William Robinson, two owners removed from Bobbin, to support his mill on a nearby stream. He in turn sold it to Benjamin Gatfield, in whose family it would remain for almost a century. It has been through a number of private owners since then.